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Trip Summary
There is usually just one train option from Montreal to Halifax per day. The average train journey from Montreal to Halifax takes 21 hours and 51 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 491 mi (790 km) |
| Fastest train | 21h 51m |
| Lowest price | CA$178.35 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | VIA Rail |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Montreal to Halifax?
VIA Rail is the one and only train line which connects Montreal to Halifax. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIA Rail | 1 | 21h 51m | CA$178.35 |
VIA Rail, also known as Via Rail Canada or simply VIA, provides service across the Canadian provinces and territories, including 1 daily trips between Montreal and Halifax. In addition to being completely green-certified, VIA Rail’s new, state-of-the-art trains feature amenities such as free reliable Wi-Fi, wide aisles, ergonomic seats, and wheelchair lifts in every accessible car. VIA Rail is known for its unparalleled customer service and snazzy black and yellow paint scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Montreal and Halifax is approximately 491 miles, or 790 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 21 hours and 51 minutes,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Trains departing from Montreal to Halifax tend to have the most passengers on Monday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Monday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Monday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Montreal at 7:00pm and arrives in Halifax around 21 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Halifax with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Halifax to Montreal.
City Information
Montreal
Effortlessly blending quaint old buildings with the high-rises of the 21st century, Montreal is an exciting destination for adventure-seekers as well as introverted travelers. We even propose Montreal as a fantastic bachelorette party destination to consider. At the beating heart of this modern city is the quarter of Old Montreal, where you can find horse-drawn carriages and cobblestone streets. As you meander through the area, don’t miss out on the chance to marvel at the architectural genius of the Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal, which is one of the most iconic structures of the city. For those who wish to stay close to nature, the gigantic Parc du Mont-Royal will satisfy all your needs. In the warmer months of the year, you can rent a boat and row on Lac des Castors, which offers amazing views.
Montreal is heaven for fans of French cuisine. The top-rated traditional French restaurants converge in the Old Montreal quarter, and some local favorite names include Toque, LOV, Crew Collective & Cafe. For those looking for Canadian specialties, head over to Schwartz’s.
The principal rail station for Montreal is the Central Station, which is served by both VIA Rail and Amtrak. If you are traveling by bus, head to the Montreal Coach Terminal (aka Gare d'autocars de Montréal) from where you can catch buses operated by Greyhound and several other carriers. The city’s main airport is the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, which is located in the nearby city of Dorval.
Halifax
A historic city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, Halifax is heaven for culturally-inclined travelers and nature lovers alike. To fully understand the city’s amazing history, head over to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, which is a testament of the city’s military’s past. At noon, reenactors of the Royal Artillery will fire salvoes of the fortress’ noon guns, offering you a unique experience. As Halifax is also a seaport, don’t miss out on the chance to browse around the city’s Seaport Farmers Market, which was first opened nearly 300 years ago. In addition to some of the freshest sea produce around, the market also sells baked products, treats, soaps, and jewelry. If you wish to find some shade and stay away from the busy streets, Halifax Public Gardens, which features an unmistakable Victorian influence, will be a great choice.
The city is the absolute heaven for seafood lovers. For a fine-dining experience, The Press Gang Restaurant and Oyster Bar opens its door for you.
The city’s main VIA Rail train station is the Halifax Railway Station, which also serves as the main hub for intercity buses. The city’s main airport is the Halifax Stanfield International Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Montreal?
Image credit: Sandra Cohen-Rose and Colin Rose
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Gare Centrale
Established in 1943, the Gare Centrale is one of the most important intercity rail stations in Montreal, offering high-speed rail services to as many as 11 million customers per year. The station is the centerpiece of the Québec City-Windsor corridor, the busiest intercity rail service area in the country. The city's train services are operated by VIA Rail and Amtrak, with several destinations including Toronto and Windsor. The station is large and well-appointed, containing two parking facilities and a shopping and restaurant complex. Other amenities include bicycle facilities and disabled access.
All train stations in Montreal:
Gare Centrale
Where is the train station in Halifax?
Image credit: Stewart Rand
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Halifax VIA Station
The VIA Rail Station is the center of intercity rail transportation in Halifax and offers gorgeous views alongside the Halifax Harbor as the trains depart. The grand, columned station first opened in 1928 and has received substantial renovations throughout the years to adapt to modern standards. The station has an enclosed waiting area with public restrooms and on-site customer service representatives. Just one VIA Rail line, the Ocean, runs from this station to Montreal. For further travel, passengers can easily transfer to bus service at the next door Maritime Bus Terminal.
All train stations in Halifax:
Halifax VIA Station
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